The appeal of the latest Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan range is strengthened by the introduction of 'state of the art' diesel technology and advanced voice recognition (AVR) for 'infotainment' systems.
A new generation common rail, direct and multiple injection 1.9TiD diesel powertrain offers more performance, more refinement, better fuel economy and lower emissions. Configured for 150 or 120 bhp and with a six-speed gearbox as standard, it complements the sporty, 'fun-to-drive' chassis dynamics of the 9-3 Sport Sedan and already meets Euro 4 emissions standards.

The new model year range also among first in the segment to offer Advanced Voice Recognition, which allows the driver to verbally operate all 'infotainment' systems without lifting a finger from the steering wheel. It is a further development of Saab's ComSense workload management strategy, which minimizes the potential for driver distraction.

New diesel powertrain
The sophisticated 1.9TiD unit is expected to raise Saab's share of Europe's growing diesel segment by combining 'state of the art' diesel technology with the 9-3 Sport Sedan's widely-acclaimed 'fun-to-drive' chassis dynamics. It brings a diesel choice to the 9-3 range that is as compelling and competitive as its gasoline engines.

Available with 150 bhp or 120 bhp, the engine offers a level of performance that is typically Saab. That means 90 per cent of the generous maximum torque (315 Nm or 280 Nm) is delivered between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm, the engine speeds most commonly used in everyday driving. Strong pulling power is matched by outstanding running refinement and a crisp throttle response more like that of a gasoline engine.

Compared to the 2.2TiD unit it replaces, the 16-valve, 150 bhp 1.9TiD engine offers 20 per cent more power and 12.5 per cent more torque, as well as the enhanced refinement and better fuel consumption. Vivid on-the-road performance gives in-gear acceleration on a par with the top-of-the-line 9-3 Aero model and 0 -100 kph acceleration in just 9.5 seconds

Whilst conceding little in performance, the 120 bhp, 8-valve version is focused more on cost of ownership and at 5.8 liters/100 km* over the combined cycle, it delivers a useful 12 per cent* improvement against the 2.2TiD and an 11 per cent* gain in CO2 emissions.

The new engine, available in Linear, Arc and Vector forms, is fitted as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox; the 150 bhp version also offering the option of a six-speed automatic transmission, a 'first' in the compact premium segment. An innovative 'maintenance-free' particulate filter ensures compliance with Euro 4 emission standards, legally required from 1 Jan 2006.

The 150 bhp engine is differentiated by a red 'T' in the '1.9 TiD' badge on the car's trunk lid.
(For a full description of the 1.9TiD engine, please see separate release)

Segment-leading voice control
Advanced Voice Recognition (AVR) helps the driver to 'multi task' safely by placing all 'infotainment' systems under vocal control, encouraging maximum focus on the process of controlling the car. The Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan is among the first in the premium compact segment to offer this facility, which is a further development of Saab's ComSense driver workload management strategy.
Saab AVR is available as an option with the 9-3 Sport Sedan's Saab Infotainment Plus communication and entertainment system. By pressing the 'push to talk button' on the steering wheel, the driver opens up voice control of the radio and satellite navigation system and, where fitted, the integrated GPRS telephone (with 'Bluetooth' connectivity) and CD player.

Saab AVR is particularly 'user friendly'. Visual confirmation of commands is provided by the high-positioned Saab Information Display, on top of the dashboard in line of sight. The driver can select 'Voice feedback', which gives prompts, confirmation of commands and help or guidance in a two-way communication.

The user, which could be the driver or front passenger, can select the radio, choosing a waveband and a station, start the CD, requesting a disc and a particular track, or make a phone call by issuing a continuous single command. Alternatively, the request can be split into a series of commands, with prompts and confirmations provided.

On the satellite navigation system, a pre-defined route can be requested through using a route pre-set, or a map and zoom setting selected by simple voice commands.

At any time the user can say 'please help', and the system will play back the possible commands to go forward from the level/position already reached.

AVR is easy to use and the microphone, located near the rearview mirror, is tuned for resistance to background noise. Tests show that frequent users quickly become familiar with the system and acquire the confidence to dispense altogether with voice feedback.

The introduction of AVR is the latest step from Saab in minimizing the in-car potential for driver distraction. For both the 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-5 ranges, it has already introduced the concept of a 'dynamic workload manager', known as ComSense.

This includes the brief suppression of dashboard warning messages, or the interception of an incoming call on the integrated telephone, when a moment of high driver workload is detected by the operation of the indicators or the onset of heavy braking. Saab's ComSense strategy also extends to the Night Panel feature - which allows the driver to reduce visual 'clutter' by switching off all the main instrument illumination, except for the speedometer - as well as illumination in green in preference to red or orange.

Other choices:

1. The front ashtray becomes a no-cost option, in order to release extra cubbyhole space for non-smokers. The cigar lighter socket is retained as a useful power outlet.

2. Extra storage space under the trunk floor is provided by the replacement of the spare wheel with a puncture repair/tire inflator kit. Customers can still specify the spare wheel as an alternative, at no extra cost.

It comes from the Saab Media website (not for public access). I guess they will release something on the 9-5 in time...

squishmann

3rd July 2004, 01:42 PM

sounds good, i think imay hop on the bandwagon now.

valbowski1980

27th July 2004, 10:06 PM

Too bad the shores of America most likely won't see the Diesels.

squishmann

27th July 2004, 11:50 PM

with saab pricing i don't think they would do too well with the Passat being available in a diesel again

mattrazzo

28th July 2004, 10:43 AM

I don't know about the tire patch kit. If you get a flat on the side of highway at night... good luck trying to figure out where the leak is and patch it. I can see that being a VERY frustrating experience. I'd just get the spare.

Saba

28th July 2004, 10:50 AM

I don't know about the tire patch kit. If you get a flat on the side of highway at night... good luck trying to figure out where the leak is and patch it. I can see that being a VERY frustrating experience. I'd just get the spare.I think its one of those inflatable ejaculating glue things that fills your tyre with sticky stuff. But, I agree, a spare is a must. Filling a shredded tyre with glue isnt going to help much.